Lexus LBX: the new compact SUV that redefines luxury

Lexus, known for its track record of innovation and boldness, has welcomed a new model that promises to revolutionise the luxury car market in Europe. Named Lexus LBX, which stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, this hybrid compact SUV represents a departure from traditional luxury and challenges expectations, showing customers once again that an SUV can be a good choice.

Until recently, Lexus was known for offering luxurious and exclusive vehicles for the elite. However, the brand has decided to break with established conventions and venture into the mass market with the LBX, offering good value for money. In addition, the brand offers a selection of four “atmospheres” besides the base version, allowing owners to express their taste and personal style, including ‘Relax‘ for something minimalist yet efficient, ‘Elegant‘ for the finest luxury, ‘Cool‘ for freshness, and ‘Emotion‘ for lovers of sportiness.

Based on the GA-B platform

This new model, which joins the Lexus range today, was unveiled in Milan as the most compact model in Lexus’s history because it shares the GA-B platform with the Toyota Yaris Cross. However, the brand has made modifications to add 2 cm in length and width, resulting in a vehicle 4.19 metres long, 1.82 metres wide and 1.54 metres tall, with a wheelbase of 2.58 metres.

In terms of performance, the new Lexus SUV has two engines. It combines a three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery, delivering a maximum output of 136 CV and maximum torque of 185 Nm. These features, together with the CVT automatic gearbox, allow the LBX to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 9.2 seconds.

Great design for the smallest SUV

In terms of design, the LBX has distinctive features that set it apart from the Yaris Cross. The front features a “Resolute Look” front grille, with a grille that occupies most of the bumper, moving away from Lexus’s traditional trapezoidal grille. The LED headlights, with their aggressive and defiant shape, complete the front look. On the sides, the black plastic wheel arch trims and 18-inch wheels stand out. At the rear, the influence of the latest NX is evident, with a “W”-shaped light signature connecting the right and left ends.

At first glance, the LBX is identified as a “B-SUV”, showing a dynamic, youthful and aggressive look. These qualities can be toned down or accentuated depending on the trim chosen by the customer. In addition, the Lexus Bespoke Build programme offers the option of changing the colour of the seat belts or even the Alcantara finish.

Stepping inside the LBX, we find a philosophy that Lexus has named “Tazuna“. The driver’s seat is designed to focus the driver’s attention on the road, with the steering wheel directly in front of the eyes and a posture that conveys dynamism and comfort. Storage spaces are adequate and accessible, although the door pockets seem a little small.

The high-quality materials mean that Lexus once again meets its usual standards, offering a dashboard with clean lines and high-quality materials.

Latest on-board technology

The LBX features cutting-edge technology and equipment details that are uncommon in its segment. These include electronic push buttons to open the doors, programmable ambient lighting, the nanoe-X electronic air purifier, and a high-fidelity audio system signed by Mark Levinson, a sound system designer.

In the rear, the sense of comfort may vary depending on the size of the passengers. Although the seats have been raised to improve visibility, the thick door panels can limit the perception of space. The boot, with a capacity of 332 litres, stands out as one of the largest in the segment, and features an automated electric tailgate that opens and closes automatically.

According to a brand statement, production of this model will begin at the end of this year and sales in Europe will start in early 2024. The price of the Lexus in Europe is still unknown, but everything suggests it will remain in the range of 32,000-35,000 euros.

LBX specifications

• Dimensions: 4,190 mm (length) x 1,825 mm (width) x 1,545 mm (height)
• Vehicle weight: 1,280 kg
• Boot capacity: 332 litres (FWD version)
• Towing capacity (unbraked): 750 kg
• Engine: 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine
• Transmission: Electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT)
• Combined total power: 100 kW / 136 CV
• Acceleration (0 – 100 km/h): 9.2 s
• Turning circle: 10.4 m

Lexus LBX 2023 image gallery